FORMER Wales captain Simon Davies played 40 minutes for Solva FC tonight (Monday) in their game with St Ishmaels at Maes-Y-Mor.

Davies, 33, made a surprise appearance as a second half substitute as the home side ran out 5-0 winners.

The former Welsh international, who played for Solva as a junior, turned up just before kick off. Many assumed he was there as a spectator, but then emerged from the dressing room in full Solva kit and took his place on the sidelines.

Solva were playing Tish in the semi final of the Mike Jones Memorial Tournament, and as the competition is not officially sanctioned, and Davies is currently unaffiliated after being released by Fulham, he is elligible to play.

Solva boss Peter Cole consulted Tish stand in boss Marc Devonald who said he had no problem with the 58 capped Welsh international appearing in the second half.

Davies came on to the right side of midfield with 40 minutes remaining, with Solva already leading 3-0 thanks to goals from Scott James (2) and Gareth Thomas. Needless to say, the former Fulham player stood out head and shoulders above the rest as he sprayed the ball about in midfield.

Solva eventually ran out 5-0 winners, with Sean Ellison and Gary Reynolds grabbing second half goals, but there were ironic cheers late on when Davies put a 25 yard free kick into the wall.

"I really enjoyed it," he said afterwards.

"Believe it or not I was a bit nervous before I came on, but it was nice to be back playing on the ground I started off on as a junior."

Solva manager Peter Cole joked Davies was a "good option to have on the bench."

The second semi final of the tournament, between Fishguard Sports and Neyland, takes place in Solva tomorrow night.